Meet the Founder

Our organization was created from more than a professional vision—it was shaped by my own lived experience. As an individual with Autism and several related disorders, I understand that navigating a world that is not always designed with neurodivergent people in mind can bring both challenges and opportunities for growth. I'll be honest, it has been immensely challenging for me, from my trauma to continuously trying to fit into a world that barely understands in the first place. These experiences have influenced how I view support, connection, independence, and what it truly means to honor the person behind the diagnosis. 

My mom showed me the power of advocacy at a young age and what can happen when you truly believe in and support people. I didn't have ABA therapy growing up, but I did have a few champions in my life that were rooting for me to succeed even when the system itself wanted me to accept defeat. My lived experience also reminds me that no two journeys are the same. Being neurodivergent gives me perspective—it does not mean that I can speak for every person or family. That is why listening, collaboration, and individualized care are so important to the work we do.

I founded Earthbound Behavioral with the vision of creating an organization where evidence-based practices and genuine human connection exist together. Our purpose is not to ask individuals to become someone different. Instead, we seek to understand their strengths, needs, preferences, and goals while helping them develop meaningful skills that support greater independence, self-advocacy, connection, and quality of life.

These beliefs are reflected in our E.A.R.T.H. Approach: Empathy, Authenticity, Resilience, Teamwork, and Hope. They are more than our values as an organization; they represent the kind of environment I wanted to create for the individuals we serve, their families, and the professionals who choose to grow alongside them.

Whether you are beginning your journey with us, joining our team, or partnering with our organization, I hope you experience Earthbound Behavioral as a place where you are heard, respected, valued, and have a geninue opportunity to grow. 

We are Rooted in Connection and Growing Potential—and I am grateful for the opportunity to utilize my personal and professional experiences to make a meaningful impact. As my mom once said, the sky is the limit and here, no one shall be reduced to less than what they are capable of.

Sincerely, 

Dr. Chase A. Thomas, Founder of Earthbound Behavioral